Letter from Lewis Douglas to Secretary of State Dean Acheson

160 DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and S(D) or (E) 307 Dept. of State letter, 43.9.1993 7-23-75 By NLT- HC D NARS Date RECORDS NATIONAL AND FIND OF SERVICE* UNITED STATES OF AMER LONDON SECOND December 1, 1949 Dear Dean: Just before Bevin went off to Eastbourne for his two or three weeks retirement and confinement, he talked to me very personally and quite mofficially about China and his Government's attitude toward recognition. He made it clear that his own mind had not come to rest on the matter, and anything that he said was in the nature of a premature preview of his thoughts. Obviously, therefore, anything he might say would not have the sanction of the Cabinet. They were becoming increasingly worried about the effects of non-recognition, and although Bevin hid not come to any clear decision, he felt that probably during the course of the next month or six weeks they would conclude to extend recognition to the Communist regime. He said he didn't know whether, should they reach this conclusion, recognition would be de facto or de jure. In response to an inquiry from me, he said it would be perfectly all right to pass his general views on to you personally, but asked particularly that they not be given any circulation in the Department beyond yourself. He said that, of course, before any final conclusion or decision were taken, after his own mind had become a little clearer on the matter, he would formally consult with us. It was so nice seeing you in Paris and in Frankfurt. Peg and I leave tonight on the "Queen Elizabeth. I am The Honorable Dean Acheson, Secretary of State, Washington 25, D.C. USA